Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Piles, or hemorrhoids, are areas in the anal canal where the tissue, which contains lots of blood vessels, has become swollen. When visible they look like round pink swellings, the size of a pea or a grape.

Causes of piles

The exact way piles form is controversial but it may be linked to excess pressure in the anus and lower rectum.

This pressure can have one or more of several different causes:

Straining to empty the bowels when constipated.

Chronic diarrhea.

Pregnancy – the weight of the fetus on the abdomen and the increased blood flow, as well as the effect of hormones on the blood vessels.

Childbirth – pushing during childbirth increases the pressure in the veins.

Straining to pass urine, especially in men with prostate problems.

Obesity.

Varicose veins – many people with these also develop piles, although piles are not varicose veins.

Excessive intake of chilly and spicy may be the reason for bleeding piles

Different types of piles

Piles are classified according to their position.

First-degree piles remain inside the rectum or anal canal.

Second-degree piles protrude (or prolapsed) from the anus when the bowels are opened, but return of their own accord afterwards.

Third-degree piles are similar, but only return inside when pushed back.

Fourth-degree piles hang permanently outside the anus.

Bleeding piles – bleeding may occur when passing stool with or without pain or burning sensation, sometimes painless bleeding may happens,

Non bleeding piles – Pain and burning sensation may present before, during or after passing stool

Internal Piles - occurring inside the anus,

External piles - when they can be seen and felt on the outside of the anus.

Symptoms

Most people affected have internal piles and may not have any symptoms at all.

The earliest symptom is often bleeding of fresh, red blood from the anal passage when the bowels are opened.

There may be itchiness around the anal area.

Third and fourth degree piles may be more painful and tend to produce a slimy discharge of mucus that leaks from the exposed lining of the pile.

There are conditions other than piles that can cause bleeding from the anus, so anyone who notices bleeding in their stool should visit a doctor for advice.

TreatmentHomeopathy medicines helps for both internal and external piles

The most important element in encouraging existing piles to clear up is to avoid constipation. By having regular bowel movements, and avoiding straining, stools pass easily and do not put pressure on the blood vessels in the anal area.

A good intake of dietary fiber, plenty of fluids, especially water, and regular exercise can keep the bowel movements soft and regular, making piles less likely.